Yakusugi Museum

Located in the lush environment of the Abo area in eastern Yakushima, the Yakusugi Museum offers exhibits that explore the ecology and history of the island’s iconic Yakusugi cedar trees. Through various displays, visitors can gain an understanding of these ancient trees and the natural environment of the region.

Inside the museum, the scent of wood fills the air. The exhibition features large pieces of Yakusugi timber and samples where the tightly packed growth rings can be closely examined. These specimens reveal the trees’ development over many years and provide a visual and sensory connection to the island’s natural history.

Adjacent to the exhibition space is a shop that sells wooden crafts made by local artisans. These items showcase the distinctive grain and fragrance of Yakusugi wood, offering a tactile experience of the material. The museum serves as a place for learning about the ecology of the Yakusugi and observing wood samples, as well as a spot to browse handcrafted wooden souvenirs. It is often used as a point to gather information about the forest and the area’s history before or after exploring the island.